News Release

For more information contact: Linda Berry, (785) 271-3269 or Samir Arif, (785) 271-3188

November 23, 2015

Kansas Corporation Commission to Host/Broadcast Public Hearing on Atmos Rate Increase Request

Topeka, KS - Members of the public will have two options for participating in the December 1st public hearing on Atmos Energy's rate increase request. The Kansas Corporation Commission will host a public hearing beginning at 6 pm at the Best Conference Center on the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park. Those unable to attend in person can, for the first time, watch the proceeding live from the KCC's website (http://www.kcc.ks.gov). A recording of the hearing will also be available on demand from the website beginning December 4th.

"Our hope is that by broadcasting the hearing live on our website, we can make it possible for more people to participate in the process and learn about the rate request," said Commission Chair Shari Feist Albrecht. "Those watching the livestream can also click on a link and enter a public comment that will be added to the case record."

On August 13th, 2015, Atmos Energy filed an application with the Kansas Corporation Commission for a $5.6 million base rate increase, stating that current rates are not sufficient to cover costs or provide a reasonable rate of return. Atmos has 131,000 customers across 33 counties in Kansas.

The Kansas Corporation Commission is responsible for ensuring that reliable public utility service is available to all Kansans at just and reasonable rates. In doing so, the Commission must balance the needs of consumers and the needs of the public utility.

The request amounts to an overall revenue increase of 11.4%. If approved, the average monthly bill for Residential customers in Kansas will increase $3.78 per month. The increase for Commercial customers would be $9.74 per month. Atmos requested a return on equity of 10.5%.

Atmos Energy filed its last rate case in January 2014, when it also requested a 10.5% return on equity. During that case, the Commission approved a 9.1% return on equity and a total revenue requirement increase of $4,331,500.